SAME SKY is very excited to introduce longtime supporter Sandy Deutsch as our August Ambassador of the Month! We talked with Sandy about women's opportunities, closing the gender gap, and her message to all SAME SKY supporters.

What drew you to SAME SKY? What makes SAME SKY unique to you?

I was first introduced to SAME SKY by my colleague and dear friend, Lauren Wachtler, a brilliant attorney and tireless advocate for women's rights, who is a longtime friend of SAME SKY's forward-thinking founder, the inestimable Francine LeFrak. What makes SAME SKY unique to me? It's knowing that the luster of every finely polished bead is a reflection of a unique story of struggle, a triumph over adversity, bound together by a sisterhood that spans the entire world. I wear my SAME SKY jewelry every day with pride at what we women have accomplished and with hope for what we women have yet to achieve.

SAME SKY was founded to provide women who've suffered under adverse circumstances an opportunity to win against the odds; to let their lights shine; to improve their lives and the lives of their families and their communities by helping them to share their glorious gifts with the world. From an early age, I think that every woman is aware of the disadvantages impressed upon women in society. I have always been an ardent supporter of bridging the gender gap and ensuring that women the world over get the helping hand they need to stand on their own feet. SAME SKY's mission is just one of the many initiatives for women's empowerment that I wholeheartedly endorse.

What does women's empowerment mean to you? Has women's empowerment always played a role in your life?

In my lifetime I've watched the role of women in society change dramatically for the greater good. But whether we're talking about reproductive rights or rightful access to educational and vocational opportunities, an equal say in the most fundamental issues affecting human society, we all know that there is much more work to be done. Women's empowerment isn't just a private affair; women everywhere must know that we are all in this together. And I think that, just by virtue of being a woman, women's empowerment plays a role in every woman's life. The fight is not even an option.

Do you have a message for the artisans? Do you have a message for the customers?

My message to the artisans - thank you, you beautiful, talented women! You are survivors of the highest order and your courage is an inspiration to us all. And my message to customers - you're not just wearing fabulous and stylish jewelry but your investment is a representation of your own commitment to women's empowerment. Yes, you can truly be a trendsetter and raise awareness for women's equality at the same time!